Pro Sports Blogging » Michael Smithhttp://www.prosportsblogging.com
24/7 Real Sports TalkTue, 28 Jul 2015 02:53:39 +0000enhourly1http://wordpress.org/?v=3.2Five Trades To Transform The Nets Into A Better Teamhttp://www.prosportsblogging.com/2015/01/22/five-trades-to-transform-the-nets-into-a-better-team/
http://www.prosportsblogging.com/2015/01/22/five-trades-to-transform-the-nets-into-a-better-team/#commentsFri, 23 Jan 2015 01:34:38 +0000Michael Smithhttp://www.prosportsblogging.com/?p=104365The 2014-2015 season has not been pretty for the Brooklyn Nets. As it stands right now, the Nets currently hold down the 8th and final playoff spot tied with the Miami Heat at a record of 18-24. They are 16 1/2 games behind the first place Atlanta Hawks (35-8). There have been many factors that took the [...]]]>

The 2014-2015 season has not been pretty for the Brooklyn Nets. As it stands right now, the Nets currently hold down the 8th and final playoff spot tied with the Miami Heat at a record of 18-24. They are 16 1/2 games behind the first place Atlanta Hawks (35-8). There have been many factors that took the Nets in a downward spiral this year, some of which include injuries, coaching change, constant line up changes and rumors surrounding the team in which every player is on the trading block except Mason Plumlee per NetsDaily.com and that the Nets team is up for sale; this has me thinking “what trades can the Nets pull off that will not hurt them in the future (pending the possible sale of the Nets) and the current season that we are in?”

The following are five trades I feel will not only help the Nets but their trading partners as well. I will explain why both teams should agree to the trades, and per the ESPN trade machine, each of these trades are financially successful.

Trade #1: Nets trade with Nuggets

Brooklyn Nets receive: Aaron Affalo & J.J. Hickson

Denver Nuggets receive: Brook Lopez

Why would the Nets agree to the trade?

The Nets will receive a young scoring guard in Affalo to start at the shooting guard spot and a rebounding big in Hickson to start at the power forward spot. Something the Nets have been looking to improve in both positions over the past few years.

Why would the Nuggets agree to the trade?

The Nuggets will receive an offensive center in Lopez which they can have replace McGee in the starting line-up. In turn, McGee drops to backup center. This will provide a strong center line-up for the Nuggets, plus, a running game with Ty Lawson and Brook Lopez. Kenneth Faried can handle the rebounding; something Lopez lacks. But, when Brook is healthy, he is one of the best scoring “big men” in the game.

Trade #2: Nets trade with 76ers

Brooklyn Nets receive: Michael Carter-Williams & Joel Embiid

Philadelphia 76ers receive: Deron Williams

Why would the Nets agree to the trade?

Carter-Williams is a no-brainer. He can score (15.6 PPG) and he can dish the rock (7.1 APG) plus rebound the ball (6.1 RPG). Michael has an upside; he is young and talented. Nets receive Embiid, a contract filler; but he is young and is a big-body at 7ft tall and 250lbs.

Why would the 76ers agree to the trade?

One, they get a big name in Deron Williams, something the Sixers haven’t had in a long time. Deron’s production is solid for 14 PPG and 6.3 APG. Williams will be a ticket seller and because of his injury risk, the Nets had to take on Joel Embiid’s contract (4yrs at 4.4 million).

Trade #3: Nets trade with Timberwolves

Brooklyn Nets receive: Thaddeus Young

Minnesota Timberwolves receive: Kevin Garnett

Why would the Nets agree to the trade?

The Nets have been looking at Thaddeus Young for a few years now. He can play the 3, 4, or 5 position (in smaller line-ups for the 5). He provides extra defense that they will lose with trading Garnett. He would be backing up Joe Johnson but he can play starter minutes for the team if needed.

Why would the Timberwolves agree to the trade?

They have an expiring contract at the end of the summer in Garnett. Plus, they will have locker room leadership in Garnett and with his hard-nose defense the team could use him as a big. They will also shed Thaddeus Young’s last year of his contract by giving him to Brooklyn.

Why Garnett waves his “no trade” clause?

Let’s face it, Kevin knows Brooklyn is not winning a Championship this year. With this trade, he gets to go back to play for a welcoming home crowd in Minnesota, he can mentor some of the young guys, all while hanging up his basketball shoes where it all began, in a Timberwolves jersey.

Trade #4: Nets trade with Hornets

Brooklyn Nets receive: Cody Zeller

Charlotte Hornets receive: Bojan Bogdanovic & Cory Jefferson

Why would the Nets agree to the trade?

The Nets receive a young rebounding power forward in Cody at age 22. He is improving each year that he is in the league. He rebounds well at 5.4 RPG. He is a good backup to have at the power forward spot.

Why would the Hornets agree to the trade?

The Hornets have wanted Lance Stephenson gone for a while. Bojan won’t be a bad replacement at the starting shooting guard spot. Even as a backup shooting guard, Bojan has many years overseas under his belt. Plus, Cory Jefferson is on a rookie contract in which Charlotte could be on the winning end of with Cory’s player potential. These are two young players that the Hornets could use for years to come.

Trade #5: Nets trade with Trail Blazers

Brooklyn Nets receive: Meyers Leonard

Portland Trail Blazers receive: Alan Anderson & Jerome Jordan

Why would the Nets agree to the trade?

The Nets receive a tall backup center in Meyers at 7’1″ and he is another young player at age 22, that the Nets would benefit for their youth movement. At this point he is not a great backup, but, he has been averaging career highs this year for the following: rebounding (4.5 RPG) and he ties a career high in points (5.5 PPG). He is worth the risk!

Why would the Trail Blazers agree to the trade?

While Anderson has been on the decline this year, he still has the ability to play heavy minutes. His veteran leadership will help Portland come playoff time. Alan is a better backup than both Will Barton & C.J. McCollum at the shooting guard spot. While Jerome Jordan is not the best backup, he gives the Trail Blazers another big body to have during the playoffs.

The is how the Brooklyn Nets will look after all of the above trades are complete.

Starting line up:

PG- Michael Carter-Williams

SG- Aaron Affalo

SF- Joe Johnson

PF- J.J. Hickson

C- Mason Plumlee

Bench: Including the third string players.

PG- Jarrett Jack, Darius Morris

SG- Sergey Karasev, Markel Brown

SF- Thaddeus Young

PF- Cody Zeller

C- Meyers Leonard, Joel Embiid

With all of these trades the Brooklyn Nets will look vastly different. The positive to these trades is they will have two open roster spots and they will be younger, faster and in my feeling a better overall team, all of which is an issue with the current Nets team. With the Nets up for sale right now, would this be a Nets team a new owner would want? Well one thing is certain, he or she should definitely take a look at my proposed trades.

This will be an interesting end to the remainder of the 2014-2015 season. While I can hope and dream these trades happen (Billy King), as a fan of the Nets, there is not much to look forward to. Hey… at least Nets fans and I can look forward to the All-Star weekend in New York this year.

]]>http://www.prosportsblogging.com/2015/01/22/five-trades-to-transform-the-nets-into-a-better-team/feed/0Where There Is A Will Is There A Way?http://www.prosportsblogging.com/2014/10/07/where-there-is-a-will-is-there-a-way/
http://www.prosportsblogging.com/2014/10/07/where-there-is-a-will-is-there-a-way/#commentsWed, 08 Oct 2014 01:31:46 +0000Michael Smithhttp://www.prosportsblogging.com/?p=103618The 2014-2015 season is just around the corner. As the pre-season just got under way, I will take a look at one Nets player that has cause for concern. Deron Williams is back but does this mean we will see the Deron we all been wanting to see (can I say since his first full year [...]]]>

The 2014-2015 season is just around the corner. As the pre-season just got under way, I will take a look at one Nets player that has cause for concern. Deron Williams is back but does this mean we will see the Deron we all been wanting to see (can I say since his first full year in New Jersey?).

As Deron himself prays his ankle and surgeries hold up through an entire 82 game season and late playoff pus. The big question is… is there a way to keep D-Will on the court for at least 70 plus games? While no one knows for sure I can suggest this. The surgery Deron had a both ankles will sure help his longevity on and off the court. Not to mention his stamina so he can keep up his daily work outs. With the team heading into the season with most of the roster intact from last season, is it safe to say that the players know what they expect from Deron and vise versa? But does this mean Deron will be healthy enough to live up to this expectation?

A lot of questions remain unanswered at least for now. But before Williams was hurt at least, noticeable by fans watching. He put up solid numbers. In his first full season in New Jersey he posted 21 PPG 8.7 APG and 3 RPG but only appeared in 55 games that season. Before his time with the Nets, Deron in Utah, had three straight season of nearly 20 PPG but had three seasons in a row of double digit APG averages. It is safe to say every Nets fan alike will love to see that Utah Deron Williams in Brooklyn this season. Last year Deron averaged his lowest PPG since his rookie season in the league. His RPG where in the same spot as well with 2.6 RPG. Lets hope we all seen the worst of Deron Williams. You could only go up form here; Right? One thing is for sure, Deron will echo this to himself this year. Where there is a will there is a way.

]]>http://www.prosportsblogging.com/2014/10/07/where-there-is-a-will-is-there-a-way/feed/0An All-Star?? Who should have been? Who shouldn’t have been?http://www.prosportsblogging.com/2013/01/25/an-all-star-who-should-of-been-who-shouldnt-have-been/
http://www.prosportsblogging.com/2013/01/25/an-all-star-who-should-of-been-who-shouldnt-have-been/#commentsSat, 26 Jan 2013 02:33:59 +0000Michael Smithhttp://www.prosportsblogging.com/?p=97882So the All-Stars are all set. From the starting line up to the bench, I will break down who got chosen and who should of been picked. WEST Starting Line Up: PG- Chris Paul-From last season his assist per game are up (9.7 APG this year last year 9.1 APG) but his points per game are down [...]]]>

So the All-Stars are all set. From the starting line up to the bench, I will break down who got chosen and who should of been picked.

WEST

Starting Line Up:

PG- Chris Paul-From last season his assist per game are up (9.7 APG this year last year 9.1 APG) but his points per game are down (16.6PPG). Leading his team to a 32-12 record. The best Point Guard in the game right now? He deserves the starting spot.

SG- Kobe Bryant- From last season his points per game are up (29.2 PPG this year, last year 27.9 PPG) and Bryant’s assist per game are up (4.7 APG) and steals are up as well (1.4 SPG). I know his team is losing (17-25 12 In the West), but Kobe still deserves the starting nod for his individual effort.

SF- Kevin Durant- He is putting up a better season then last as far as STATS go. He is up in every category except rebounds. Leading his team to the best record in the West at 33-10. He deserves the starting job.

PF- Blake Griffin- With fans doing the voting here, I feel he should make the team but there are better players that should of made the starting line up instead of Blake Griffin. (David Lee, LaMarcus Aldridge).

Center- Dwight Howard- Only numbers that are up from last season are Blocks (2.5 BPG) the rest are down, some would say because of injury problems. The fact that Dwight is playing the lowest amount of minutes per game at 34.9 MPG this year (lowest since 2009-10 season) is why he is playing so poorly, but which again could go back to injury as to why. With numbers down and his team losing, the fans again give the name the note. Instead of the performance. In my opinion, even though he plays Power Forward Tim Duncan should of got the starting job at Center.

The Bench-

Russell Westbrook- 22.7 PPG, 5.3 RPG, 8.1 APG, Is there a more STAT worthy Point Guard in the league right now. No. He is doing a stellar job at the Point and deserves the spot.

Zach Randolph- Has not been an All-Star since his first nod in 2010. But while putting up close to 2010 STATS, do coaches and fans feel bad for not adding him as an All-star (as they should) earlier in his prime? To me, his team mate Marc Gasol should of got the spot.

Tony Parker- While putting up close to career average STATS except for scoring (19.8 PPG at this point, career average is 17.0 PPG) Parker should have been left off this year due to Stephen Curry. Curry has a rise in every career STAT catorgey except blocks only down .1 percentage. Boosting his PPG to 20.9 so far, way up from last year average of 14.7 PPG. All while gliding his team to a 26-15 record 5th in the west. A career year for him and playing well, why was he left off? Tony Parker does not deserve the spot over Stephen Curry.

David Lee- While his team mate was left off the team (Curry) it is nice to see David Lee start getting recognized as An All-Star type player. David is putting up 19.6 PPG, 10.8 RPG and for a center, a highly 3.7 APG. His Second nod as An All-star. David should of been starting at Power Forward but the fans voted the more famous name in (Blake Griffin). David Lee deserves the All-Star spot.

James Harden- OH MY! If it was not for Kobe Bryant as playing as good as he is, This man could of been a Starter. With Vince Carter like numbers he has a career high in EVERY STAT category except for some shooting percentage and is averaging 25.8 PPG, 4.5 RPG, 5.4 APG. He better have made the team! Fans SHOULD vote him to a Starter spot next year if Kobe and company (the Lakers) keeps on the decline. I put the should in CAPS because the more recognizable name will get the vote, as Howard and Griffin did this year. Harden deserves the spot to this years All-Star team.

Tim Duncan- His team is playing very well 34-11 (second in the West) and Tim is playing extremely hard and has not played at this level since the 2009-2010 season. At age 36 people thought he was on the decline. Tim Duncan plays the Power Forward but he could and should of started for the injury much Dwight Howard, but none the less he deserves an All-Star nod.

LarMarcus Aldridge- Having a very solid year in all STAT Category’s. He deserves the All-Star spot.

EAST

Starting Line Up:

PG- Rajon Rondo- Having a Career year, team is playing around .500 ball. But in the East of starting Points Guards, not much is better. You could say Deron Williams, but only as of late is he playing like the real Deron Williams. Now that the votes are already in Rajon Rondo got the nod. He deserves the starting spot.

SG- Dwyane Wade- Although his numbers are down from career averages, he still is playing overall good basketball and he was still the smart choice by the fans. He deserves the starting spot.

SF- Carmelo Anthony- Having an MVP type of year. The Knicks are winning again at a record of 26-14. He deserves the starting job.

PF- Lebron James- Enough said. Oh and his team is 27-12 and they are first in the East. He deserves the starting spot. Now Enough Said.

Center- Kevin Garnett- Yes, the fans got this wrong way wrong. Not only should he not be starting, he should not have made the All-Star team. KG is having Career lows (aside from his rookie year) in almost every single STAT category. Two names who would of been better in the starting spot, Tyson Chandler or Brook Lopez both are playing better basketball but I will go into one name that did not make it. Brook Lopez is playing better defense and rebounding at a better rate this year. All while putting up 18.6 PPG and 7.4 RPG, 2.1 BPG all of which are better then Kevin Garnett. Which I might add the Nets are winning (26-16) not playing around .500 ball (right now the Celtics are below .500 at 20-22) and for Lopez to not make the All-Star team at all, Is something wrong here?

Move over Mr. Stephen Curry you have a friend in Brook Lopez who shares your pain. Fans got this wrong. KG does not deserve the starting job nor should he be on the team this year. Sorry your days are numbered Kevin Garnett if it were not for the fans you would of had an extended weekend.

The Bench-

Joakim Noah- With Noah beating his career averages in almost every category except field goal percentage and boosting his team to a 25-16 record (4th in the east) he with out doubt deserves to be an All-Star. Congrats on the first All-Star nod Mr.Noah.

Kyre Irving- Although Kyre is a special player and having a career year. He does not have the fame as a Kobe Bryant and his team is far more behind in the win column. He does not deserve the spot. Brandon Jennings deserves it over him. Brandon is having just about a career year as well (except for scoring) and his team is playing better ball at 22-18 (7th. in the east).

Jure Holiday- Jure is having an amazing year boosting his APG to 9.0 from last years 4.5 APG. He also has a rise is almost every STAT as well. But Monta Ellis does deserve to be mentioned putting up solid numbers but I do feel like the window is closing on Ellis to be an All-Star. He does not deserve the nod this year over Jure Holiday but he needed to be mentioned due to his 18.8 PPG, 3.6 RPG, 5.5 APG. Jure does deserve the spot and con grats on his first All-Star nod.

Luol Deng- While Deng is playing solid ball and his team is playing well. I feel the spot should of went to Josh Smith instead. Smith is averaging career highs this season in PPG (18.8) and RPG (9.6). While Deng is averaging career highs in APG (2.9) and MPG at (39.2). Loul Deng did not deserve the All-Star nod this year over Josh Smith.

Tyson Chandler- A walking double double (12.1 PPG, 10.9 RPG) his team would be not be where the are (Second in the east) with out him. He deserves the All-Star nod.

Chris Bosh- In my opinion Bosh got the coaches nod because his team is first in the east (27-12) but Chris is posting lower the career averages in almost ever STAT’s category. Two others players who could of been in the talk for taking his spot? One is J.R. Smith. He is having a career year and boosted his PPG to 16.5 up from last years 12.5 PPG. Also a nice jab up from last year, was his RPG this year at 5.0 RPG to last years 3.9 RPG.

Second is Joe Johnson, he is not having a career year, but so far Johnson has made three buzzer beaters to ice the game for the three wins. He has scored 18 or more points in his last 8 of 11 games. I would leave that up to the coaches of who to pick between J.R. Smith and Joe Johnson, but then again the coaches put Chris Bosh in this spot. Chris Bosh does not deserve this year’s All-Star spot. One of the two in Johnson or Smith should of gotten the nod instead.

Well there it is, my complete All-Star review, while much is left of the NBA season fans around the world will enjoy much of this February All-Star weekend. Which is set to tip off Friday February 15 from Houston Texas. Enjoy!

]]>http://www.prosportsblogging.com/2013/01/25/an-all-star-who-should-of-been-who-shouldnt-have-been/feed/10Did P.J. make his point? Is he the one?http://www.prosportsblogging.com/2013/01/03/did-p-j-make-his-point-is-he-the-one/
http://www.prosportsblogging.com/2013/01/03/did-p-j-make-his-point-is-he-the-one/#commentsFri, 04 Jan 2013 02:38:14 +0000Michael Smithhttp://www.prosportsblogging.com/?p=97321Is this the change the Brooklyn Nets need? Did they make the right choice? Will Phil Jackson coach this team? All questions aside the new year brings in new resolutions. For many it’s a time to lose weight and go to the gym more, or eat better, or work on saving money etc. But for the Nets, it is [...]]]>

Is this the change the Brooklyn Nets need? Did they make the right choice? Will Phil Jackson coach this team? All questions aside the new year brings in new resolutions. For many it’s a time to lose weight and go to the gym more, or eat better, or work on saving money etc. But for the Nets, it is about a coaching change and to have focus totally on winning.

Well is P.J. Carlesimo the answer the Nets need? After firing Avery Johnson and posting a 5-17 record in December (3-13 in the month of December under Avery Johnson). The Nets have been playing better under P.J. Carlesimo posting a 3-1 record under him so far.

But taking a closer look into the coaching and each of their Net’s impact there are some very notable things. First off: the new, P.J. Carlesimo; then the past Avery Johnson; and finally the dream; Phil Jackson.

P.J. Carlesimo: In his last two seasons as acting head coach P.J. has coached 95 games for two teams; the Golden State Warriors and the Seattle Super Sonics (the now OKC Thunder). In those games he put up a record of 21-74 with a 22% win/lose percentage from 2007 to 2009 a total of 95 games. In his best season as coach he put up a record of 49-33 with the Portland Trial Blazzers in the 1996-1997 season.

Differently in his worst season as a head coach he had a 19-63 record with a 23% win/lose percentage with Golden State in the 1997-98 season. But is he the man for the Nets? Most would say no but there are some good reasons to keep him long term. He has been around the team since December of 2011, he knows the players already and knows what has to get done. P.J. is already familiar with his staff. I also might need to mention he knows the front office and recently had dinner with Mikhail Prokhorov, does this give him the leg up on staying long term? With a 3-1 record so far and some notable wins over the Charlotte Bobcats and just fresh of a solid performance beating the OKC Thunder (best record in the NBA so far at 24-7) he does seem to be challenging his players and has them playing hard.

With games coming up vs. the Wizards and Kings and only playing the Pacers and Hawks (twice) in the next two weeks as there tougher competitors. Can P.J. get a win streak going? One thing is for certain, if he does, it will only build his resume and make the front office want him to stay long term with the Nets.

Avery Johnson: While Avery is a good coach, there is not much to say about his coaching in the Brooklyn/New Jersey days. He seems to be a good man and by his coaching history a fine coach. But to me he just did not seem right in the coach chair for the Nets. As his best season as a coach he posted a 67-15 record an 81% win/lose percentage with Dallas in the 2006-07 season. But as his worse season as coach, it comes in as no surprise the Nets in the 2010-11 season with a 24-58 record only a 29% percent win/lose percentage. Avery was coach for a total of 176 games in Brooklyn/New Jersey while posting a 60-116 record matching a 34% win/lose percentage.

But in his final weeks as Nets coach it seemed he lost his players. They did not seem to connect with him on the court, nor did they seem to listen. But as a coach, its clear you have to take charge. It was a surprise to me that he never challenged Deron Williams or yelled at him (who knows if he did behind close doors) for three point after three he chucked up. But then again he did play Dreon at the 2 spot. I still believe Avery is a good coach just not good with the team he had. Good luck and hope you coach again soon A.J.

Phil Jackson: There is a lot of buzz out there that the Nets front office is soon to go after Phil. If they do land him, it would be like a grand slam in game seven of the World Series. In Phil’s 20 seasons of coaching he has never once coached a losing season. His worst season was in 2005 with the Lakers posting a record of 45-37 matching a 54% win/lose percentage. In my book that is a good season, I would not call the this a worse season. For the best record, I’m sure all you know, it was the 72-10 yes a 87% win/lose percentage in the 1995-96 season with the Chicago Bulls. In that season only, Phil’s team only lost ten times, in that is very amazing, even more amazing, during that season the team only lost by more then 10 points one time.

So if the Nets do get him they will be in good hands. Of those 20 seasons, Phil has only not reach the NBA finals six times and he has 11 rings as coach. If Phil Jackson takes the job, does he know the Nets have a championship team?

In all, things will be very interesting in the coming weeks. Will the Nets have a new coach or will they stay the course with P.J. Carlesimo? Also will another coach lose his job? If so can Avery Johnson land the job? Well one thing is certain, this is the NBA don’t be surprised by anything.

]]>http://www.prosportsblogging.com/2013/01/03/did-p-j-make-his-point-is-he-the-one/feed/3Where is Joe Johnson?http://www.prosportsblogging.com/2012/12/03/where-is-joe-johnson/
http://www.prosportsblogging.com/2012/12/03/where-is-joe-johnson/#commentsTue, 04 Dec 2012 03:42:48 +0000Michael Smithhttp://www.prosportsblogging.com/?p=96403When Joe Johnson got traded to the Brooklyn Nets during this past summer everyone was expecting a back court they have not seen since the Jason Kidd and Vince Cater days. Joe Johnson is no doubt a top five shooting guard in the NBA, but it’s time he starts playing like one. With 16 games [...]]]>

When Joe Johnson got traded to the Brooklyn Nets during this past summer everyone was expecting a back court they have not seen since the Jason Kidd and Vince Cater days. Joe Johnson is no doubt a top five shooting guard in the NBA, but it’s time he starts playing like one. With 16 games into the season a modest 15.6 PPG, a average 3.8 APG, low rebounding numbers of 2.8 RPG (comparing to his career average of 4.2 RPG).

But what has most Net fans screaming at their TV is his shooting woes. Johnson has been shooting an ice cold 40% this year from the field, while most of you might say that’s not too bad, you must have not watched him during the game. There have been six games where Joe Johnson has shot 38% from the field or worse. Out of those six games J.J. has shot 25% from the field (3-12) vs. the Knicks on November 26 only putting up 8 points and shooting 1-4 25% from the 3 point range. Then playing the Kings on November 18 Joe went 1-10 from the field at a nasty 10% and 0-3 from 3 point range only managing 10 points and 2 rebounds. On November 11 Joe had shot 23% from the field going 3-13 vs. Orlando putting up a quiet 13 points. Lastly Johnson put up 9 points two games before on November 7th vs. the heat shooting a miserable 28% from the field at (4-14).

Now I know Joe Johnson still needs to get some chemistry with the rest of the team, as well as Deron Williams. But can Joe Johnson start hitting the gym court more for shooting practice? One of a few things for the Nets to be considered a contender team in the league. Joe Johnson needs to play like the six time all-star we know he can be and at least put up career average’s (17.7 PPG, 4.4 APG, 4.2 RPG) and not to mention he has been in a shooting slump at the free throw line. Down from last years percentage of 84.9% to 78% this year, while I have to agree that is not bad, Johnson is only attempting 2.6 free throws per game.

Which brings me to my next point, can Joe Johnson start using his size more? He’s a 6’7 shooting guard and at 240 pounds he should be able to get to the rim more especially against smaller shooting guards.

In five games this season when Joe Johnson had 4 or more free throw attempts in a game he put in a average of 17 PPG in those five contests. Also the fact the J.J. is playing 37 minutes a game this season he should be scoring more. Which Joe has not averaged minutes like this the past two seasons. The last time J.J played at least 37 minutes a game was 2009-2010 season when he put up 38 minutes a game and poured in a solid 21.3 PPG that season.

Can Joe Johnson put up solid numbers again? Or is he already on the decline? I don’t want to mention to Nets fans alike that J.J. is owed $19 million plus this season and has around $68 million plus and three years left on his contract.

But lets not hit the panic button just yet.

We are only 16 games into the season and J.J. has had some note worthy games but he needs to carry that momentum and keep that flow going. The good news is the Nets are off to there best start since Jason Kidd brought them to those back to back NBA finals. But if Joe Johnson could play like were all use to seeing, is it safe to say we can taste NBA finals air again? Too soon for this year……but not for the Eastern conference air!

]]>http://www.prosportsblogging.com/2012/12/03/where-is-joe-johnson/feed/0Blatche Attack?http://www.prosportsblogging.com/2012/10/17/blatche-attack/
http://www.prosportsblogging.com/2012/10/17/blatche-attack/#commentsWed, 17 Oct 2012 23:54:38 +0000Michael Smithhttp://www.prosportsblogging.com/?p=93848When Andray Blatche signed with the Brooklyn Nets in mid July most people thought he was a mistake signing and that his head case and immature past will wonder onto the Barcley’s Center floor and into the Nets locker room. With Blatche getting into off court trouble back in August 2007 and June 2008, is it safe [...]]]>

When Andray Blatche signed with the Brooklyn Nets in mid July most people thought he was a mistake signing and that his head case and immature past will wonder onto the Barcley’s Center floor and into the Nets locker room. With Blatche getting into off court trouble back in August 2007 and June 2008, is it safe to say in the four years since he has learned his lesson?

With Andray playing back up center to Lopez and some back up power forward giving him a one year non- guaranteed deal sounds like a win-win for both Net fans alike and the Brooklyn front office.

And A win it has been since the Nets took him in, he has been working out hard at the PNY center and been in no trouble on or off the court. Andray has been playing very similar to his career year in A Washington Wizards uniform back in 2010-2011 when he put up 16.8 points per game and 8.2 Rebounds per game and 2.3 APG. also putting up A decent number of about one block per game and A steal A game as well.

In three Pre-season games this year Andray has been more then playing like A back up big. Putting up 17 PPG and 7.3 RPG and 1.3 APG and doing so while shooting A respectively 58% from the field and A modest 68% from the line all while only playing 22 MPG . Playing better than his career averages is nice to see. With 9.9 PPG and 5.4 RPG and 1.5 APG for his career average, it is encouraging to see him play with Max effort and giving it his all. This just might be the team Andray needs and with the veterans around to keep him in check lets hope he can continue his stellar play into the regular season.

Could this be the return of the Andray Blatche we saw in 2010-2011? One thing is for sure, so far he is no disappointment and I am liking to see him matured and that he is making this change in a Brooklyn Nets uniform.

]]>http://www.prosportsblogging.com/2012/10/17/blatche-attack/feed/1The Best Back Court?http://www.prosportsblogging.com/2012/08/16/the-best-back-court/
http://www.prosportsblogging.com/2012/08/16/the-best-back-court/#commentsThu, 16 Aug 2012 22:16:09 +0000Michael Smithhttp://www.prosportsblogging.com/?p=88284Which team in the NBA has the best back court? The best point guard and shooting guard combo? I will pick the top five back court teams/combos in the NBA and go into depth about each. Number 5- The Minnesota Timberwolves PG- Ricky Rubio SG- Brandon Roy With Ricky Rubio going into [...]]]>

Which team in the NBA has the best back court? The best point guard and shooting guard combo? I will pick the top five back court teams/combos in the NBA and go into depth about each.

Number 5- The Minnesota Timberwolves

PG- Ricky Rubio

SG- Brandon Roy

With Ricky Rubio going into his second NBA season this year and coming off a ACL tear, I feel he will be better by the start of the season and put up better numbers then he did this past season (10.6 PPG,4.2 RPG, 8.2 APG) although assist and rebounds should stay around the same, I expect him to get to the basket more. Next Brandon Roy saying his injury is behind him and that he should be playing close to his level he was use to playing at in Portland. But by putting Rubio with Roy these two will not only make there team better they will make themselves better at there respected position. Brandon puts up career numbers of (19.0 PPG, 4.3 RPG, 4.7 APG) if Roy can come close to those numbers these two wont be under looked.

Number 4- The Denver Nuggets

PG- Ty Lawson

SG- Andre Iguodala

With Iggy being traded to the Nuggets last week as part of the 4 team trade that sent Dwight Howard to the Lakers. I feel that with playing a more natural position for him is at shooting guard. With his height 6ft 6in. is better suited then playing small forward as he did with the Sixers. Now Ty Lawson will have a better off guard to play along side with. Don’t get me wrong Arron Affalo is a good player but not an Iggy’s level type of guy. Also Iggy can defend just as good as any Shooting guard out there. Ty Lawson should be having a break out season this year. With his numbers improving each year and only averaging 34 minutes a game. With more minutes for Lawson this season and the fact that Ty is only improving will have them as the 4th best back court in the league.

Number 3- The Milwaukee Bucks

PG- Brandon Jennings

SG- Monta Ellis

With Monta joining the Bucks and Jennings closing in on starter minutes this combo can be deadly. While Jennings averages 19.1 PPG he can score at will with having seven 30 plus point games last season and having had 9 games of 24 to 29 PPG, oh and lets not forget he scored a whopping 55 in 2009 We know Brandon can score. But Monta Ellis is in a category of its own he is a top five shooting guard maybe even top 3 behind Kobe,Wade,?. I do feel Monta in today’s NBA is still one of the most under rated players in the league, especially at his position. Ellis had twelve 30 plus point games last season and a season high of 48 Vs. the Thunder. Yes he can be turn over prone at times and under achieve on the defensive end, but he sill does a lot of other things that should be noticed more. He can score, rebound, dish the ball, plays well with team mates and plays hard every night, besides he is a veteran and a good leader. Not to mention other things as well. But when you put two scoring guards together in Jennings and in Ellis you have one of the most lethal combinations in this league.

Number 2- The Los Angles Lakers

PG- Steve Nash

SG- Kobe Bryant

Not only will these two be special this year this team will be very VERY good with the addition of Dwight Howard and the the keeping of Pau Gasol. One thing is for certain Kobe never had a point guard of Steve Nash’s caliber and play making. It just might give Kobe that extra advantage he needs. But the reason why I did not put this duo first is because this is an 82 game season and by the time playoffs roll around Bryant will be 34 and Nash 39. That’s a lot of miles for a 39 year old to go into the playoffs with. Tired legs and other things aching your body and sorry Steve but you do not have the Phoenix training staff (no dis-respect to LA training staff but I think we can all agree Phoenix has the best training staff in the league). Between the two they have two to three good years left in them, let alone they both might retire in that same time frame as well. The age is the only reason I did not put them into the number one spot other then that there are great pair.

Number One- The Brooklyn Nets

PG- Deron Williams

SG- Joe Johnson

Now I know most of you are saying i’m a Nets fan and picked them because the Nets are my team, No. I would of picked the Number two team if it was not for their age. Let me explain. With Deron being 28 a full ten years younger then Nash, Deron is already a top 3 point guard in the league. Yes, Nash was better in his career at one point and was probably the best point guard one point as well. But he no longer has room to improve, and is on the decline as well. I’m not saying Nash does not have “it” still, he is a dazzling point guard and puts up numbers. But the fact he will be out of league before Deron is is why I pick Deron as the better Point guard, because he still has room to grow. Now I’m not going to sit here and say Johnson is better then Bryant because he is not. But Joe Johnson is playing with a top 3 point guard in Williams, but the same can be said about the Lakers combo, Nash is playing with the best shooting guard in Bryant. But to me picking the Best back court comes down to the age Johnson,31 and Williams,28 is younger and can play at good level for more years then Bryant and Nash. While Kobe and Nash will more likely be retired within the next three years. Deron and Johnson will most likely still be playing together and for that they grab the number one spot as the best back court in the NBA.

]]>http://www.prosportsblogging.com/2012/08/16/the-best-back-court/feed/14A Nets Standhttp://www.prosportsblogging.com/2012/08/03/a-nets-stand/
http://www.prosportsblogging.com/2012/08/03/a-nets-stand/#commentsSat, 04 Aug 2012 03:12:00 +0000Michael Smithhttp://www.prosportsblogging.com/?p=87522A new home and a New team. The Newly named Brooklyn Nets have gone from bottom to top with a summer of transformation. Last summer around this time the Nets had All-star Deron Williams to look up too but, not much else besides Brook Lopez and draft hopeful Marshon Brooks. But how much does a year [...]]]>

A new home and a New team. The Newly named Brooklyn Nets have gone from bottom to top with a summer of transformation. Last summer around this time the Nets had All-star Deron Williams to look up too but, not much else besides Brook Lopez and draft hopeful Marshon Brooks. But how much does a year bring? Well it brings you from fighting for A top ten team in the eastern conference to top five in the eastern conference.

Last year starting line up was as followed PG:Deron Williams SG:Anthony Morrow SF: Damion James PF: Kris Humphries and C: Brook Lopez to this summer of happily re-signed PG: Deron Williams to top five shooting guard Joe Johnson (yes his contract is bad but he can still put up numbers) to last year deadline trade for SF: Gerald Wallace to double double machine PF: Kris Humphries and to injury free and soon to be playing five on five ball again C: Brook Lopez.

From trying to make the playoffs or hoping to make the playoffs, this years starting line up seems a sure as ever for bringing this newly named Brooklyn named Nets into the playoffs. How deep into the playoffs?

Well that does depend on a few things the first: is the most important especially for us Nets fans, we are all to familiar with the injury bug. If this years Nets can stay healthy and mostly injury free we can be a top four team in the east in my opinion. The second: is the starting line up, I’m not questioning the starting five but how fast they can come together as a team. Also jel and have chemistry which will give way to the outcome of games. If they finish games the way it should be finished the way a team who already has the chemistry down for example; the Miami Heat and the Oklahoma Thunder will depend on what the Nets record will be. Finally the third is the bench, every deep playoff team has a good bench. A solid bench Carry’s a team when the starters are resting, if this bench can carry the way we hope then we should be fine.

Here is a deeper look: PG: Deron Williams (Coming out of Free Agency wooing and re-upping with the Nets is the best news any Nets fan would have heard this summer but not to mention Deron’s PPG were the second highest of his career at 21.0 only falling short to 10-11 season with 21.3 PPG but now we have Joe Johnson to help with some scoring but nice to know our starting PG can score if needed). SG: Joe Johnson (With Never having played with a PG of Derons’s level it’s safe to say the Johnson might have the rejuvenating year that he needs. Also he does not have to be the only person to carry the team as he was in Atlanta. Less pressure and better performance). SF: Gerald Wallace (After only playing 16 games with the Nets Wallace will know what team he will be with for the next several years. Most say he’s on the decline but with Gerald just turning 30 in July, that is a better option then what we had last year at this time. But also playing those 16 games with so much effort. Every time he was on the court he was playing his game, no matter what the score was. With Gerald finishing the season with highs in 3-point percentage 38.5 and free throw percentage 85.9 I’m not at all upset about having him as our starter). PF: Kris Humphries (Most said we can do better but I feel we did good with keeping the hump with highs last year in PPG 13.8 Blocks per game 1.2 steals per game 0.8 APG 1.5 and RPG 11.0. Plus With all that was going on with the Kardashian-Humphris saga last season the hump still brought it each and every single night and was a walking double double. We could of done a lot worse). C: Brook Lopez (With Lopez missing most of the last two seasons and Brook saying he will be playing five on five ball soon it seems to be the foot injury and ankle injury is behind him, so we hope. With Brook putting up 38 points last season vs. Dallas and with career averages of 17.4 PPG 1.6 BPG 7.5 RPG and 1.6 APG is it safe to say will see that return or better)?

The Bench: PG’s: C.J. Watson (With C.J. taking the vets minimum to sign with The nets after talking with Avery and Deron at 5.5 APG that is clearly a nice back up PG numbers. After backing up for the injured Rose last season C.J. sure got noticed and got some nice minutes in the playoffs). Rookie Tyshawn Taylor (Was the top scorer in this past summer league and did give some good effort considering he was taken with the 41st pick in this summers draft). SG’s MarShon Brooks (was called last years steal of the draft and with some amazing flashes last year Brooks put up Rookie averages last year of 12.6 PPG 3.6 RPG 2.3 APG not bad at all for a back up to JJ). With the Nets re-upping Keith Bogans this summer he will give them some added depth and veteran leadership. Which the Nets lacked last year and with Bogans able to play the 2 and 3 spot he might see some nice minutes as well.

SF’s Tornike (Toko) Shengelia after Toko played well during summer league and playing hard nose hustle. Can he carry that into training camp to be a back up to Gerald Wallace?) Jerry Stackhouse (While Stackhouse might not get more then 10 minutes a game, its nice to have a 17 year vet in the locker room and hey he is two years younger then Jason Kidd, 39 and Jerry, 37 and Kidd still can have his moments and I think at times the leadership will show on the court from Stackhouse. PF’s Mirza Teletovic (With Tele being claimed by some the best player to come out of Europe last year with him averaging 21.7 PPG 1.0 BPG 6.0 RPG and shot a slick 43% form three for his old team Caja Laboral. Most compare him to a better Ryan Anderson). Reggie Evans (With another vet and a sign and trade that brought him over from LA Clippers he is a rebounding monster. This is needed as a backup PF averaging 4.8 RPG in 13 minutes last season and 7.3 RPG in 18 minutes during the playoffs for the Clippers last year. Also Evans can draw nice Fouls from his opponents). C:TBD (training camp? or another Summer Free agent Signing? Maybe Evans or Tele can play some 5 but safe to say the Nets will get a more fit Center by opening night on November 1st).

All in all, a more rounded team then last year and a deep team at that. But there are some good and bad’s just as with the other 29 teams in the league but only time will tell how far the now Brooklyn Nets will go next season. Well first things first Hello Brooklyn.